Drivers can use a variety of methods and technologies to stay in compliance with the hands free law.[/caption]

Austin's new hands-free driving law has resulted in more than 2,000 tickets being issued since the law went into effect at the beginning of the year.

The hands-free ordinance bans drivers and bikers from holding an electronic device in their hands while the vehicle or bike is in motion. Operators of bikes and cars can hold and use electronic devices if they are legally stopped, such as at a red light.

From Jan. 1 to Jan. 31, violators of the new law were given a courtesy warning from Austin Police Department officers. From Feb. 1 to May 31, there were 2,074 tickets issued to motorists for “electronic use while driving,” according to data from Austin's Municipal Court.

David Montalvo, senior police officer with APD's Highway Enforcement Command, said the new law has curbed unlawful behavior some but not entirely.

"I'm seeing a reduced amount of people on their cell phones, but there's still quite a few people doing it," Montalvo said. "Almost 70 percent of the time when I stop somebody for it, this person is not from this area, and the person has no idea about the ordinance."

More awareness is needed to inform drivers on Austin roads about the new law, Montalvo said. He said signage at the city limits as well as television and radio advertisements could help better spread the word.

Montalvo, who primarily monitors I-35, said he has not seen a reduction in the amount of accidents or crashes in the area since the law began being enforced.

Data obtained from APD by citizen activist Scott Johnson—who sat on the advisory group that ultimately recommended the hands-free initiative—shows 1,624 tickets were issued from Feb. 1 to May 7, with the majority of offenders between the ages of 21 and 30. Those between 31 and 40 years old were the age group with the second-most offenses.

Only one biker, who was 36 years old, was cited during that same time period, according to the data.

Each violator could face up to $500 in fines.

Handheld cell phone use in Austin’s school zones has been against the law since 2009. APD cited 77 persons for cell phone use in a school zone from Feb. 1 to May 7.